The Heirs of Frederick the Great: Edward the Elder and His Succession

The legacy of Frederick the Great continues through his offspring, particularly his son, Edward the Elder. Known for his strategic prowess and vision, Frederick the Great led Prussia to a position of prominence in Europe. However, his dynasty and line of succession are equally intriguing and worthy of exploration. This article delves into the history and legacy of Edward the Elder, who ascended the throne after his father's death.

Edward the Elder

Frederick the Great's son, Edward the Elder, succeeded him in 1786. Edward was born in 1768 and was thus 18 years old when he became king. His reign lasted until his death in 1840, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs of the House of Hohenzollern. The transition from Frederick the Great to Edward the Elder was not without complications, as there was a dispute over the throne that involved Edward's uncle, Aethelwold.

The Dispute Over the Throne

Alfred, the father of Edward the Elder, was succeeded by his son Edward, who is known as Edward the Elder. This succession was not entirely straightforward. Alfred had a nephew named Aethelwold, whose father had been king before Alfred. Tragically, Aethelwold's father was killed in battle, and Aethelwold himself was a young boy at the time of his parent's death. This left Alfred as the logical and, in the eyes of many, rightful heir to the throne.

Frederick Wilhelm II and the House of Hohenzollern

Similar to the succession issue of Edward the Elder, Frederick the Great's brother, Frederick Wilhelm II, also became king of Prussia following his elder brother's death on August 17, 1786. Frederick Wilhelm II continued the legacy of his brother, maintaining Prussia's importantly position in European politics and ensuring the continuity of the House of Hohenzollern.

Conclusion

The legacy of Frederick the Great stretches beyond his reign, encompassing the line of succession and the subsequent monarchs. Edward the Elder and Frederick Wilhelm II played pivotal roles in the ongoing story of the Prussian monarchy. Understanding these key figures provides a deeper insight into the political dynamics and succession issues of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

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